Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, has visited Burnley Youth Theatre to see first-hand how funding from his Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Fund is being used to educate young people about the dangers of child sexual exploitation through drama.
The theatre production, developed in collaboration with survivors of child sexual exploitation, follows the story of a young girl drawn into the world of grooming.
The performance is designed to help young people recognise the early warning signs of abuse, exploitation, and dangerous situations, while encouraging open and healthy conversations.
Thanks to a £7,000 grant from the Commissioner’s VAWG Fund, Burnley Youth Theatre will deliver sessions in five schools across Lancashire over the coming months.
The project forms part of a wider programme of investment, with the VAWG Fund allocating £177,000 to 38 projects aimed at preventing violence, supporting survivors, and creating safer communities for women and girls.
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Following his visit, Clive Grunshaw said: “Preventing violence against women and girls is a Police and Crime Plan priority, and we know that early intervention and education are key to ensuring young people remain safe.
“Approaching topics such as abuse and exploitation with young people can often be difficult.
"That’s why the work done by Burnley Youth Theatre is so important, as they use drama to raise awareness and encourage healthy, open discussions.
“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I will continue to invest in initiatives that make Lancashire a safer place for all.”
Laura Simpson, producer and head of programmes at Burnley Youth Theatre, highlighted the importance of using theatre as an educational tool.
She said: “Creating issue-based theatre is so important as an awareness-raising tool for young people to be able to recognise early signs of abusive, exploitative and dangerous situations for both themselves and their peers.
“After each performance in schools, pupils will be able to explore the issues and themes raised with a follow-up workshop in a safe and supportive environment.
"We are delighted to have received funding in order to create this powerful piece of theatre.”
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